16 Fun Things to Do in Pittsburgh, As Recommended by Locals

Located in western Pennsylvania at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, Pittsburgh‘s personality is shaped by its geography, history, food, culture, and people. During the industrial boom, Pittsburgh became known as the “Steel City” because its abundant coal mines made it a major center for iron production in the US. The city’s steel was used to build some of the country’s most iconic bridges, railroads, and skyscrapers, but it also provided a robust economy until the 1970s and 80s, when global competition and automation led to the collapse of the steel industry.  

Today, Pittsburgh has reinvented itself into a bastion of tech, healthcare, education, and finance. Giants like Google, Facebook, and Uber have established offices here, and world-class institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center drive STEM innovation. Pittsburgh has also experienced a cultural renaissance within the past few decades, thanks to a thriving arts, food, and sports scene. In 2024, Pittsburgh was ranked as the third most livable city in the US in The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index. 

From historic neighborhoods featuring grand mansions to upscale areas full of trendy, eclectic places to eat, drink, and be merry, Pittsburgh has a little something for everyone. Read on, and we’ll pass on some of the locals’ suggestions for things to see and do in this beautiful city.

1. Rent a bike and tour the bridges 

Pittsburgh has over 400 bridges to tour (446, to be exact), allowing visitors to get to know the city from all angles. “For a unique way to see the city, rent a bike and ride across Pittsburgh’s many bridges,” suggests Tom Michael of Larrimor’s, a historic Pittsburgh institution offering curated contemporary and designer apparel. “With scenic routes along the Three Rivers, it’s a great way to take in the skyline and discover different neighborhoods.” There are plenty of places to rent a bike or e-bike and tour on your own, or you can sign up for a guided bike tour.

2. Grab a cup of Joe in Lawrenceville 

“If you like funky environments, spend time in Lawrenceville’s coffee shops,” says Michael. “This trendy neighborhood is packed with independent cafés where you can grab a latte and people watch.” Located along the Allegheny River just northeast of Downtown, Lawrenceville is one of Pittsburgh’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, transforming from an old industrial area into a hip, walkable place to hang. If you’re in the mood for something besides coffee, this area’s got you covered with a wide variety of outstanding restaurants, cafes, and bars.

3. Catch a Steelers game 

“And if you happen to be in town during football season, don’t miss the chance to experience a Steelers game,” Michael suggests. Also located right on the Allegheny River, Acrisure Stadium provides impressive views of the Pittsburgh skyline to enjoy while you’re at the game. The atmosphere is electric on game days, and Steeler fans (known as the “Steeler Nation”) are among some of the most passionate and loyal in the NFL. 

4. Have a date night in the Cultural District

Kristen Kane, owner and lead planner for Pittsburgh’s Kristen Kane Events, offered a few fun suggestions, beginning with an exciting evening out! “Looking for a mix of culture, food, and fun in Pittsburgh? Start your adventure in the Cultural District, where you can catch a Broadway show or symphony performance,” she says. “Afterward, dine at Ritual House, where the standout is their Pittsburgh cookie table dessert, a sweet nod to local tradition.” The Cultural District also hosts festivals and events like the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts and the Pittsburgh JazzLive Festival and gallery crawls showcasing local art, music, and food. 

5. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Phipps Conservatory

“For nature lovers, Phipps Conservatory offers breathtaking seasonal exhibits and lush gardens,” says Kane. The Conservatory has over a dozen unique themed plant collections, including a palm court, orchid room, tropical forest, Japanese courtyard garden, desert room, and a lush fern room complete with a tranquil waterfall. It also offers seasonal flower shows and events that transform the gardens throughout the year.  

Good to know: The Conservatory is open daily, but visit their website before you head out, as hours vary depending on the season. 

6. Check out the skyline at sunset

Kane gave us a couple of suggestions for places to enjoy the city’s skyline from a different perspective, too. “Take a scenic Gateway Clipper river cruise for unbeatable views of Pittsburgh’s skyline and bridges,” she says. Gateway Clipper offers sightseeing tours, but they’ve also got riverboat dining cruises if you’d like to make an event out of it. “Also, don’t miss out on riding the incline to Mount Washington!” Two inclines remain out of the original four serving the Mount Washington area, providing commuters with a pleasant way to get downtown and visitors with a fantastic way to enjoy the city view! 

7. Have fun with the fam at Kennywood

Traveling with the kids? Kane suggests a day at the park! “For a family-friendly outing, Kennywood offers classic amusement park fun with thrilling rides,” she says. The park is one of America’s oldest (it opened in 1898) and has a wide variety of attractions for everyone, from daredevils looking for a way to fly to those of us who prefer to keep our feet on the ground. There are classic park food offerings like corn dogs, funnel cakes, and potato patch fries, as well as seasonal events for Halloween and Christmas.  

Good to know: The park is open seasonally from spring through fall; check their calendar for updated hours.  

8. Makes some feathered friends at the National Aviary

“Animal enthusiasts will love the National Aviary, home to rare and exotic birds,” says Kane. America’s largest aviary, it’s home to over 500 birds from all around the world and is one of the city’s most beloved attractions. You’ll find African penguins, tropical birds, North American songbirds, and wetland-dwellers like pelicans and flamingos. The aviary offers encounter experiences where you can get up close and personal with the penguins, watch majestic birds of prey in action, and more. The aviary is a massive contributor to bird conservation, working with programs around the world to breed and protect endangered species and their habitats.  

Good to know: The aviary is open every day but Tuesday from 10 am – 5 pm. 

9. Explore the North Side

Juliane Mazzarella, founder and principal designer at Pittsburgh’s Zuhause Interiors, gave us great destination suggestions for art and design enthusiasts. “North Side is one of my favorite places to explore,” she says. “It’s full of beautiful architecture and vibrant neighborhoods, and the Mexican War Streets are such a standout! The Victorian homes there are just stunning, they are so colorful and full of character. As a designer, I can’t help but admire all the little details, from the intricate trim to the charming front porches. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to take your time and soak it all in.”

10. Get inspired at the Andy Warhol Museum

“I also love the Andy Warhol Museum,” says Mazzarella. “There’s something really cool about how the sleek, modern design of the space plays off Warhol’s bold pop art. It feels so creative and inspiring, not just because of the art but because of the space itself.” The museum is located in the city’s Cultural District and celebrates the life and work of not only one of the world’s most renowned artists but also one of Pittsburgh’s most famous natives. The museum features the Warhol Film Series, late-night events, and hands-on workshops inspired by Warhol’s techniques. They also regularly host rotating exhibits and special exhibitions featuring works by other contemporary artists influenced by Warhol.  

Good to know: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm except on Fridays when they close at 10. They’re closed on Tuesdays. 

11. Have a blast with the kids at the Children’s Museum

If you need the perfect place to spend an afternoon indoors with the kids, Mazzarella’s got you covered there, too. “When my kids were younger, we spent a lot of time at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. It’s such a fun place, and I love how it brings together the old and the new,” she says. “The building has so much history, but it’s been transformed into this creative, welcoming space. It’s a great spot for families and for anyone who appreciates good design!” The museum has interactive exhibits where kids can learn about everything from music and sound design to 3D printing to kinetic energy.  

Good to know: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed on some Wednesdays, though, so check their calendar before you go.  

12. Stroll the North Shore

“Pittsburgh is unique in that it has all of these smaller subsets of the city surrounding it,” says Ashley Moss Kurkiewicz, president of Hello Productions in Pittsburgh. “Each one is known for something unique and offers visitors plenty to do! The first stop I recommend to visitors is the North Shore (not to be confused with the North Side neighborhood). It continues to grow as more restaurants and venues are added along the river. PNC Park (the baseball field) and Acrisure Stadium (home to the Pittsburgh Steelers) are highly recommended, especially if you can catch a game. After the game, there are many restaurants to choose from as well as hotels for an overnight stay.” 

13. Then venture down to the South Side

“The second stop I recommend is the South Side,” says Moss Kurkiewicz. “Beginning at Station Square with a meal at the Gandy Dancer/Grand Concourse, you can then take the incline for a ride up and down the hillside. Further up Carson Street, you will pass through bars and restaurants leading to the South Side Works. This newer part of South Side also has great spots for dining and drinking along the river!” 

14. Stroll through the Strip District

We had several votes for the Strip District as one of the things visitors should put on their must-do list, including from Nathan Stockman, president of Pittsburgh’s Stockman Lawnscape. “Pittsburgh’s Strip District is a vibrant neighborhood just outside downtown, perfect for a weekend morning adventure! This extremely walkable half-square-mile area is packed with everything you need, but the Strip District truly comes alive on weekends, offering plenty of options for entertainment without needing transportation.”  

“You can reserve a tee time at Puttshack for some tech-infused mini golf, then hop over to one of the many bars for a post-game drink. The PA Market is a local favorite worth checking out as well. For those interested in spirits, the area boasts several notable establishments, including Pittsburgh Winery for fine wines, Maggie’s Farm Rum for award-winning rum, and Wigle Whiskey for whiskey and gin (and learn PA’s whiskey history during your visit).” 

“The Strip District’s unique combination of food markets and boutique shops (honorable mention for Lucy’s Handmade Clothing Shop – my wife loves it there, but there are so many great options) makes it an ideal destination for a fun-filled weekend outing in Pittsburgh. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or simply explore, this neighborhood offers a little something for everyone.” 

15. Take a trip to Randyland 

“Also, don’t forget to visit Randyland!” says Stockman. Located in the Mexican War Streets neighborhood, “it’s a vibrant and eccentric outdoor art installation created by local resident Randy Gilson that transforms an entire street corner into a colorful and whimsical display of recycled objects and artistic sculptures.” Randyland is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and a perfect spot for some Instagram-worthy keepsake pics. Come as you are and enjoy some local art! 

16. Get your grub on in the Strip District 

The Strip District is the place to be for lots of reasons, but for local photographer and owner of Pose PGH Lexi Shapiro, it’s all about the food! “As an avid home chef, the Strip District is my happy place. You can shop for the best, freshest ingredients for pretty much anything you could want to make and there are so many ethnic and specialty grocers/shops. If you head down on a weekend morning, it is bustling in the best way possible, and the streets will be lined with vendors and restaurateurs selling the most incredible street food.” 

“Oh, and don’t sleep on Lucy’s Banh Mi!” Shapiro says. “It can be tricky to find, but well worth it; she sets up shop with a tent and trailer down by 22nd Street and Penn.” 

Pittsburgh’s waiting to welcome you! 

Whether you’re looking for a bustling outdoor bar for cocktails and people-watching, a quiet spot for a latte and a book, or a full day of attractions you won’t find anywhere else, Pittsburgh’s got you covered. Bonus: The locals are fantastic! They take great pride in their great city and are more than happy to share their favorite spots, both off the beaten path and on the main streets. Just be sure to bring your walking shoes, camera, and sense of adventure!